Belarus is interested in expanding relations with African countries,
Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said as he met with Minister of
Foreign Affairs of Angola Georges Rebelo Chicoti on 26 June, BelTA has
learned.
“Of course, we still need to learn more about Africa. And we would
like to work on this promising continent of the future,” the Belarusian
leader said.
“Like any other state, especially the one like Belarus (a very young
state), we are choosing the countries we can rely on. We have known
these countries for a long time. Angola is one of such countries.
Perhaps, it is the first country in this list. Another reason is that
after Angola's acquisition of sovereignty in 1975 we have always
supported and helped this country. The main contingent of military
advisers in Angola was represented by the Belarusian military command,
there were many Belarusians there,” the president said. “We have known
and remembered this wonderful country since then. If you are not
against, Belarus can also begin the penetration of Africa with Angola.”
Alexander Lukashenko stressed that there are no closed topics for
cooperation between Belarus and Angola. “We are ready to cooperate with
you in all areas of interest. You should visit Belarus and the
enterprises you are interested in to see where we can be useful for you
with your own eyes,” the head of state said.
Georges Rebelo Chicoti, in turn, agreed that there is a big untapped
potential between the two countries. “I am glad to note that after the
accreditation of Belarus' ambassador in Angola, after the meeting with
the president of Angola, we have finally understood that there is a huge
untapped potential, that we lack certain things. Therefore, we are
going to build up cooperation with your country,” the minister said.
He expressed confidence that Angola can win by strengthening
cooperation with Belarus and reaffirmed the country's commitment to the
comprehensive fulfillment of common plans.
Written by belta.by